Those are key objectives of the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) as we head into the Federal Election.
Dean Long, ATIA CEO, and fellow ATIA officials have been holding high-level meetings with politicians from every major party as the country prepares to go to the polls on May 4.
From reducing regulatory burden to increasing airline competition, ATIA’s stated goal is simple: a stronger, fairer operating environment for members.
ATIA met recently with Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell, in partnership with the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, to discuss the role of travel in future trade ties and current EU and US tariff negotiations.
Minister Farrell is also the architect of the Reviving International Tourism Grant, supporting member reconnection with international markets.
The travel industry organisation also hosted Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Tony Burke in Sydney (pictured above with Dean Long).
This follows sustained engagement that led to the inclusion of travel consultants, travel agency managers and tour guides on the Core Skills Occupation List, reopening vital skilled migration pathways for the industry.
“We’re working with all sides of politics to fix the rules and deliver better outcomes for travel businesses and their customers,” said Mr Long.
“Whether it’s workforce reform, fairer airline competition, or smarter regulation, everything we’re pushing for this election and beyond into the next Federal Parliament is about making it easier for travel businesses to grow and succeed.
“This sector delivers billions to the economy and connects communities. It’s time policy settings better reflected that.”
ATIA and ATIA member briefings have also continued in the run up to the election with politicians briefed including Opposition frontbenchers Bridget McKenzie, Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Luke Howarth.
In the Perth-based electorate of Curtin, Independent MP Kate Chaney heard directly about critical issues, including the proposed Aviation Industry Ombudsman, workforce gaps and the need to support small businesses.
